AudioSource LS62W

Eric Carter, of Cartronix says, " The Mystery Shopper keeps the entire staff on their toes, making sure all questions a customer might have are answered to the best of their ability. We strive to get our customers in the door so we can quote them fairly and turn them into loyal Cartronix customers." 

Riverside, CA, – K&N High-Flow Air Filters are designed to increase horsepower and acceleration while providing excellent filtration.   A K&N Air Filter is made of 4 to 6 layers of cotton gauze sandwiched between two epoxy-coated aluminum wire screens.  The cotton is treated with a specially formulated grade of oil causing tackiness throughout the cotton’s strands.  The nature of the cotton allows high volumes of airflow, and when combined with the tackiness of the oil creates a powerful filtering media that ensures protecting your vehicle’s engine.  K&N High-Flow Replacement Filters are installed in minutes and comply with factory warranties.  K&N Filters can be easily cleaned with the Recharger maintenance kit and will last the life of your vehicle

K&N High-Flow Air Filters are currently available where quality performance is sold and are backed by the K&N Million Mile Limited Warranty®.

Riverside, CA – The K&N High-Flow Intake System for the 2011-12 Dodge Challenger 5.7L, (63-1114), increases horsepower by an estimated 12 hp at 4513 rpm over the stock configuration. To achieve more horsepower, K&N replaces the original intake assembly; including the air box, air filter and intake tube with an all-new intake design. The new system draws air through a K&N High-Flow Air Filter that increases airflow and never needs to be replaced. Protecting the chrome top cone-shaped air filter, and isolating it from engine heat, is a steel heat shield that replaces the stock air box.  As it passes the filter, air travels through a larger diameter K&N Roto-Molded Polyethylene tube that is formed and shaped, in the design phase, to drive a more laminar flow of air to the car’s engine. 

The 63-1114 is available where quality performance is sold and is backed by the same K&N Million Mile Limited Warranty® as all K&N OE Replacement Air Filters.        

K&N Engineering, Inc., with headquarters in Riverside, California, has been the world's leader in performance filter technology since 1969, serving the needs of the automotive, motorcycle, marine, industrial and military markets. K&N is heavily involved in nearly every form of motorsports, from off-road and powersports, to drag racing, stock cars and road racing. For more information about K&N, please contact K&N Engineering, Inc., P.O. Box 1329, Riverside, CA 92502-1329, (800) 858-3333, (951) 826-4001 Fax, or to see updated vehicle applications visit www.knfilters.com®.  MSRP - $410.97

Long Beach, CA - Kenwood USA Corporation announces the launch of a consumer mail-in rebate program with GPS-navigation industry leader Garmin.  The rebate program targets specific Kenwood in-dash audio/video models with built-in navigation technology supplied by Garmin. 

Dave Hoag, Vice President of Sales for the Consumer Electronics Sector of Kenwood USA, said “Kenwood’s nearly decade-long relationship with Garmin has given specialty retailers tremendous opportunities for stepping customers up to the world of premium Kenwood-branded in-dash navigation.  For 2012, we are partnering with Revenew Systems to deliver the program through a digital marketing platform that will attract thousands of new customers while increasing participating dealers’ contact lists.  We expect customer conversion to be higher than ever using these unique marketing tools.”

The mail-in rebate program begins May 1 and ends July 31, 2012, placing the promotion in the middle of the busiest retail period of the car audio selling season in most areas of the country. 

Participating Kenwood dealers will receive an in-store merchandising kit as well as access to program-specific digital marketing materials including web banners, and co-branded e-mail promotion templates.  All this is connected by a shared brand message platform and supported with a national advertising campaign.  Dealers can craft their own advertisements for the promotion by downloading digital merchandising materials from the Revenew network, customize them with their logo and location information, place on their Facebook page and web site and also distribute to their email database. 

“Through education and incentive, we intend to give our dealers the opportunity to step customers up from a bare bones in-dash model, or portable GPS unit, or even a smartphone application into a full featured premium navigation/entertainment system,” said Hoag.   “Our partnerships with Garmin and Revenew Systems are a combination unique to the mobile electronics industry and we encourage authorized Kenwood retailers to activate these tools to maximize their customer conversion and sales volume.”  

Model              Sugg. Retail Price       Consumer Rebate

DNX9990HD         $1,800.00                      $100.00

DNX7190HD         $1,200.00                      $100.00

DNX6990HD         $1,500.00                      $100.00

Rebate Program Duration:  May 1 through July 31, 2011

Ann Arbor, Michigan – Brandmotion LLC, award-winning supplier of OEM-grade, integrated safety and convenience products for cars and trucks, announced it is now shipping the rear view camera kit for the 2011-2012 Cadillac CTS and 2010-2012 Chevy Equinox.The kit enables owners of these vehicles to experience the safety and security benefits of rear vision, which is available only by purchasing expensive, higher-level trim packages from the car dealership. 

Carrying model no. 9002-9620, the rear-view camera kit features anOEM-validatedRear Vision system that reliably matches the fit, finish and features of factory installed systems on the Cadillac CTS Luxury trim package, or the Chevrolet Equinox Luxury, Performance Premium, LT and LTX trim levels.As a result of the factory match, all existing vehicle features are retained and function normally after the rear vision system is professionally installed.

“This is a product we’re really excited to bring to our customers,” said Jeff Varick, Brandmotion president and CEO. “It caters to those with concerns of adding aftermarket equipment, and enables applicable vehicle owners with lower trim levels to get the safety and security a back-up system provides.”

The OnStar button-equipped, auto-dimming mirror in the kit features a 3.5-inch LCD color backupmonitor built into the mirror face. The camera comes with all mounting hardware, and the wiring is insulated to factory standards. The rear view camera kit carries a warranty that matches the term of the vehicle’s factory warranty.

With the release of the 9002-9620 for CTS and Equinox, Brandmotion has solidified its camera offerings with an array of universal and application-specific models. The new Ford Emblem Camera comes built into an elongated but factory look emblem that replaces the factory logo on the bed of most newer F-series trucks, and to enhance the collision avoidance properties of the rearview camera line. Brandmotion also offers Curb-Alert Pro, an early warning proximity system that helps eliminate vehicle damage by running into or over curbs or parking blocks. 

LONG BEACH, Calif.  – According to a recent online survey conducted by Harris Interactive on behalf of Pioneer¹,  an astounding 79% of smartphone owners use apps while in the car, with the top three most used apps being maps and navigation at 56%, music at 31% and social networking at 24%.  Pioneer’s new AppRadio™ 2 (SPH-DA100) addresses the in-car needs of smartphone users by bringing car centric apps such as navigation and music into the dash where they are safer and more practical to access and manage.  The release of AppRadio 2 brings today’s connected lifestyle directly into the vehicle, supporting both the iPhone^®* and Android^™** smartphone platforms, giving consumers a better way to plug in their phones and utilize Pioneer approved apps. 

“It’s no secret that the smartphone has taken consumers to a new level of connectivity where almost any information and entertainment option can be accessed at anytime,” said Ted Cardenas, vice president of marketing for the Car Electronics Division of Pioneer Electronics (USA) Inc.  “Our goal is to make using various iPhone or Android features and apps, specifically those that are appropriate for in-car use, safer and more convenient in the car.  The Pioneer AppRadio accomplishes this by providing smartphone access and control through a larger touchscreen installed in the dash and integrated into the vehicle.”

Along with AppRadio 2’s availability, the supporting AppRadio App, previously available only for iPhone, is now also available at no charge from Google Play™and compatible with certain Android smartphones. Additionally, there are five new compatible Android apps, one from Pioneer and four from other providers, in these popular categories.  

Navigation

Waze^®: A free social mobile app, Waze is a turn-by-turn voice navigation app that uses the driving community to help provide real-time traffic updates for an optimal commute.  The app is 100% powered by users, so the more users there are, the better it gets.

Music

AUPEO! Personal Radio^™: With more than 120 Internet radio stations available, users can search for their favorite music by artists, songs or AUPEO!’s “Mood-Tuner.”  Users can also choose to “love” or “ban” songs directly from the AppRadio screen, enabling the app to adjust content to the user’s personal taste.

Pandora^® internet radio: One of the most popular Internet radio services available today brings the user’s favorite and newly discovered music to the dash of the vehicle. 

Functionality

Pioneer CarMediaPlayer: When used with a Pioneer AppRadio (SPH-DA01 or SPH-DA02), CarMediaPlayer allows users to swipe, drag, and directly touch the desired artist, song, or album in their music libraries and offers Alphabet Search and Album View functions

DashCommand^™: Utilizing the built-in GPS and accelerometer sensors of the smartphone, DashCommand displays advanced vehicle and driving statistics.  When connected to a compatible vehicle’s OBD-II data port (optional OBD-II cable sold separately), advanced data monitoring, logging and analysis are enabled.  Users can create and display up to 27 virtual dashboards with many styles including digital gauges, analog gauges, indicator lights, and more, which can all be accessed on the AppRadio 2 screen. 

Pioneer’s CD-AH200C Android App Connectivity Kit (sold separately) for Android smartphone users has also been released.  Currently there are fifteen Android smartphone models** compatible with AppRadio 2.  The kit includes the cables that support both the Mobile High Definition Link (MHL) and Micro HDMI^® connections necessary to interface with a compatible Android powered smartphone.  The CD-AH200C kit has a suggested price of $119.00.

 AppRadio 2 Features:

• iPhone 4 and iPhone 4S compatibility via the iPhone cable (included)
• Compatible with certain Android powered smartphones
• Large 7-inch capacitive touchscreen, enabling control of supported functions using touch and motion gestures similar to the most popular smartphone devices
• New for 2012 AM/FM radio layout
• Built-in Bluetooth^® connectivity for hands-free calling with phone book access, dial pad and included microphone
• Built-in GPS antenna for improved positioning accuracy
• Input for an optional rear facing back-up camera
• Two pairs of RCA outputs for connection to external amplifiers
• Input for optional steering wheel control input adapters (sold separately)

Pioneer’s AppRadio 2 is available at authorized Pioneer retailers with a suggested price of $499.  For more information, visit www.pioneerelectronics.com/appradio

¹This survey was conducted online within the United States by Harris Interactive on behalf of Pioneer from April 12 - 16, 2012, among 2,215 adults ages 18 and older. This online survey is not based on a probability sample and therefore no estimate of theoretical sampling error can be calculated. For complete survey methodology, including weighting variables, please contact Katherine Manning.

* Compatible with the iPhone 4 and iPhone 4S.

** NOT compatible with all Android powered devices or apps.  Android connectivity requires the CD-AH200C Android Connectivity Kit, which is sold separately. 

Pioneer Electronics (USA) Inc. is headquartered in Long Beach, Calif., and its U.S. Web address is www.pioneerelectronics.com.  Its parent company, Pioneer Corporation, is a leader in optical disc technology and a preeminent manufacturer of high-performance audio, video and computer equipment for the home, car and business markets.

Bluetooth functionality requires a compatible Bluetooth-enabled mobile phone. Certain Bluetooth features may not be supported by all compatible Bluetooth-enabled devices, and/or the functionality of such features may be limited in certain devices or by certain wireless carriers.

NOTE: Do not use your Pioneer system if doing so will divert your attention in any way from the safe operation of your vehicle.

Always observe safe driving rules. Certain operations may not be legal while driving in your jurisdiction, so you must be aware of and obey any such restrictions.  If in doubt as to a particular operation, only perform it while the car is parked.  No feature should be used unless it is safe to do so under the driving conditions you are experiencing.

Pioneer and AppRadio are trademarks or registered trademarks of Pioneer Corporation.

Google, Google Play and Android are registered trademarks of Google Inc.

AUPEO! Personal Radio is a trademark of Aupeo Ltd.

Bluetooth is a registered trademark of Bluetooth SIG, Inc.

DashCommand is a trademark of Palmer Performance Engineering, Inc.

iPhone is a trademark of Apple Inc., registered in the U.S. and other countries.

Pandora is registered trademark of Pandora Media, Inc.

Waze is a registered trademark of Waze Inc.

###

Contacts:

Jaed Arzadon, 310.952.2451, This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. "> This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

Katherine Manning, 310.952.2388, This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. "> This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.     

Oxnard, Calif. - Scosche Industries (www.scosche.com), a leading innovator of mobile electronic products and accessories for the automotive aftermarket, is pleased to announce it is now shipping two new installation kits for the Kia Sportage.  Another Scosche “Custom Kit, Factory Fit”, the KA2099SB and the KA2099DGBare specifically designed for the 2011 Kia Sportage.

For a seamless installation of an aftermarket head unit, both the KA2099SB and the KA2099DGB will accommodate either an ISO single DIN mount with pocket or an ISO double DIN mount.  The kits are made with high strength ABS/PC material, contour and color matched to the factory dash.  The KA2099SB is painted silver and the KA2099DGB is painted dark grey. Each kit comes with a pocket, mounting brackets and retention clips, making an aftermarket installation simple.

The  KA2099SB and KA2099DGB  vehicle specific installation kits will retail at $49.95 and include all the necessary hardware and detailed installation instructions. For a complete aftermarket installation, Scosche also manufacturers the matching harness, the HY07B which retails for $14.95.  The new 2011 Kia Sportage kits and all Scosche products are available at specialty retailers across the nation. Visit www.scosche.com for more information on this and other “Custom Kit, Factory Fit” products.

Torrance, Calif. - Rydeen Mobile Electronics announced that it has introduced the MV311S, a new replacement mirror with built-in monitor. The MV311S replaces the company’s popular MV301 kits and is now available for shipment.

The primary change in the MV311S is a new production platform that features a more integrated circuit board architecture. The 3.5-inch TFT color monitor also gains minor viewing enhancements. But more importantly, the new platform utilized by the MV311S shares the same mechanical characteristics of the highly anticipated MN312S,which means future models can be cost-effectively upgraded to include new features, such as temperature and compass (in the upcoming MV311T), andauto dimming.

“Like any company, we consistently seek to improve our products,” said Phil Maeda, president of Rydeen. “While not directly obvious on the outside, the MV311S improves on the MV301 with a more robust internal mechanical and electricalframework that ultimately improves the mirror’s reliability and sets the stage for new products in the future.”

MSRP for the MV311S remains the sameas the MV301.  In addition, all of the mirror/ camera packages carry over to the MV311Sas follows: 

MV311SKM – MV311 Mirror / Monitor with MINy™ Camera and VSM-A mounting stem

MV311SKL – MV311 Mirror / Monitor with MINy™ LED Camera and VSM-A mounting stem

MV311SKH – MV311 Mirror / Monitor with MINy™ HD Camera and VSM-A mounting stem

MV311SKP – MV311 Mirror / Monitor with License Plate Bar Camera and VSM-A mounting stem

MV311SKD – MV311 Mirror / Monitor with DUO™ Camera and VSM-A mounting stem

MV311SKF – MV311 Mirror / Monitor with Custom Ford® Cam and VSM-A mounting stem

Arlington, Va. - The International CES® today announced its “Call for Speakers” for the 2013 International CES®, the world’s most important technology event, which returns to Las Vegas, Nevada, January 8-11, 2013.

Consistently ranked as one of the top 10 most desired speaking opportunities for CEOs, the International CES conference program features the consumer electronics industry’s top authorities to address the latest trends, strategies and upcoming business opportunities.

The Call for Speakers focuses on 25+ sessions targeting some of the hottest topics in technology today and in the future. These sessions, combined with tracks produced by our conference partners, will bring more than 900 speakers and 300 conference sessions covering a diverse span of industry topics. More than 150,000 professionals from the accessories, audio, automotive, content, digital imaging, entertainment, health and fitness, video and wireless industries attend CES. Corporate buyers and retailers, media, analysts, venture capitalists and manufacturers from 150 countries also come to CES to conduct global business.

Speaker proposals will be accepted through 5 p.m. EST, June 12, 2012. Proposals should be submitted online at: speaker.ce.org .

A full list of topics to be covered during the 2013 International CES conference program is now available.

Automotive Data Solutions Inc. (ADS) is proud to announce the launch of the new www.idatalink.com. Entirely redesigned, their fourth generation website includes the following new and improved features:

• Revamped graphics featuring easier access to new product and firmware information.
• Improved search tools featuring easier access to new product and firmware information.
• New product and firmware pages including vehicle-specific installation info, firmware history, install guides and tech notes.
• Enhanced Weblink experience including:
  • - Optimized flash by vehicle and flash by firmware options.
  • - New advanced module feature configuration.
  • - Option to flash legacy firmware.
  • - Access to Weblink activity statistics and account information.
• New firmware solutions supported by our advanced KLON engine and much more!

Developed in-house, the new and improved www.idatalink.com website aims to set the industry benchmark in terms of functional design, access to information and user experience.

We encourage you to visit the new www.idatalink.com for yourself and send us your feedback at  This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

LOS ANGELES, Calif.- JVC Mobile Entertainment (www.mobile.jvc.com), a leading developer and manufacturer of sophisticated mobile, audio, and video products, announces its 2012 “TURN ME ON: THE ROAD / HALESTORM” campaign to promote JVC In-Dash Multimedia and Navigation receivers. The campaign focuses on an explosive documentary-style viral video, featuring chart-topping hard rock act, Halestorm. An extensive campaign, including online banner ads, video content placement, social media integration, extensive PR buzz, as well as concert tour promotion, will commence with launch of the video, which will also be featured on the high-definition JVC video billboard in Times Square.

With the inception of the TURN ME ON franchise back in 2008, JVC Mobile completely rethought its marketing strategy by dedicating the majority of its marketing and media budget to a groundbreaking online viral video featuring artists like Josh Todd from Buckcherry, Jacoby Shaddix from Papa Roach, The Charm City Devils, Darling Stilettos, The All-American Rejects, as well as Lita Ford, Candlebox, Puddle of Mudd, and Rev Theory. JVC Mobile Entertainment’s TURN ME ON series, which has garnered over 40 million combined video views and over 2 billion brand impressions, has revolutionized the car audio marketing landscape with this innovative series.

This year, JVC Mobile has raised the stakes for the fifth installment, with a more expansive video concept, following Halestorm on the band’s 2012 US tour, in support of their new album, The Strange Case Of…. The new format will feature a three episode roll-out throughout 2012. The video will follow Halestorm’s journey through their 2012 tour schedule, starting with pre-tour rehearsals and preparations, and all points in-between, as they hit the road from spring to summer to fall. The creative execution will result in a fast-paced “rockumentary” lifestyle video created and directed by TURN ME ON mastermind Danny Klein, with key video and stills captured on a daily basis by renowned music photographer, Rob Fenn. The intensive shoots will take place at key on-location stops throughout the year, including exclusive interviews with band members and loyal fans.

The viral video’s first chapter, released today, May 1, 2012, will start with a focus on Halestorm’s tour preparations, featuring interviews and candid moments from the band members, including their childhood musical aspirations, their experiences in the band, and finally their huge successes. The video will follow the band as they kick off their tour at the Earthday Birthday festival in Orlando, where live performances will be documented. The second release in the summer will capture Halestorm and their US tour journey. The final chapter, to be released in the fall, promises to go out with a bang. All three of these segments will comprise one complete piece entitled TURN ME ON: THE ROAD / HALESTORM ROCKUMENTARY.

 Along with rock stars, entertainment, and great music, the viral video incorporates key interactions with JVC Mobile’s in-car technology. Each video chapter will feature JVC Navigation, Multimedia receivers with popular iPhone App integration inside a Ford Shelby GT 500 Supersnake, which serves as the “hero” car throughout the video. Effects will be incorporated to bring these products to life, serving as a reminder that JVC Mobile’s in-car technology is a very integral part of our lives.

"For our latest edition of the Turn Me On series, we wanted to break the mold and do something dramatically different," said Chad Vogelsong, General Manager of Marketing for JVC Mobile Entertainment. “This campaign is a raw, edgy, 'behind-the-scenes rockumentary'-styled journey with the band Halestorm, on the road during their album launch and touring cycle in 2012. It shows the band creating and performing music on the road and creates the ‘TURN ME ON’ connection between music, driving and how it makes you feel as a music fan. JVC products and technology bring the same feeling in your car, regardless of whether you are rocking out to music on a CD, iPod, or streaming your favorite music App on your smartphone.”

"I'm so excited about JVC’s ‘TURN ME ON’ campaign,” says Halestorm lead singer, Lzzy Hale. “The truth is that no matter what new gadgets, mediums or incarnations our music goes through, one thing remains the same; we like it LOUD and BLARING through our speakers! Turn it up and TURN ME ON!"

For the third consecutive year, media partner egoTv has been tapped to be the exclusive online distribution network for the branded entertainment campaign. The site will also feature exclusive galleries from Rob Fenn (www.musicthroughthelens.com), along with periodic posts with updated features throughout the year from JVC Mobile Entertainment. Users will be able to grab embed codes and site links from www.egotv.com/turnmeon to spread the TURN ME ON: THE ROAD/HALESTORM video around the web. The page will include an email opt-in area to capture JVC Mobile fan emails, links to technology partner sites, as well as a “Locate Now” button that will take users to the Dealer Locator page on JVC Mobile’s website. Fans will also be able to link to iTunes to buy Halestorm’s albums, as well as to keep up to date on tour dates and other info.

To view the TURN ME ON: THE ROAD/HALESTORM online viral video, log onto: www.egoTV.com/turnmeon

High performance and affordable price mark the Earthquake's next generation of TremorX subwoofers. The TremorX is ready to get louder and lower than any other subwoofer in its category.

The new TremorX’s are built with TCT technology which allows the driver to play louder longer by keeping the voice coil running cool at all times. These bad boys also have stitched leads, reinforced dust cap construction for linear movement, and bigger, more effective magnets. They feature:

• Heavy duty stitched leads.

• Easy connect spring-loaded push terminals.

• TCT Technology (Turbine Cooled Transducer) for high efficiency output.

• Military grade single 4-Ohm or 8--Ohm voice coil.

Available in 3 models – 4 or 8 ohms (MSRP shown): TremorX-10 $165.00 / TremorX-12 $199.00 / TremorX-15 $250.00. 

People want vehicle technology that lets them be productive. In fact, their desire for connectivity and productivity technology is -- with safety -- a leading motivator of extra-cost features on new vehicles. That bodes well for autonomous driving technology, which might be the ultimate productivity tool, as it promises, ultimately, to control a vehicle while the driver -- heaven forbid -- texts.  

Google this week pitched its autonomous-car technology at the yearly SAE (Society of Automotive Engineers) World Congress in Detroit, saying that cars that drive themselves are in the horizon. The company has been testing Toyota Prius vehicles fit with Google technology that lets the vehicles drive autonomously, and is hoping that automakers pick up on the technology. 

Just out from J.D. Power and Associates, the 2012 U.S. Automotive Emerging Technologies Study suggests that while safety is still -- as it has historically been -- a dominant theme in what consumers want in a vehicle, the desire for technology that lets people be connected and productive is growing. Said Mike VanNieuwkuyk, executive director of global automotive at J.D. Power, in a release: “While vehicle owners remain very interested in technologies that make their vehicle safer, they are turning their attention more and more toward features and technologies that allow them to be productive, connected and entertained while in their vehicles.”

For the full article, visit MediaPost. 

Alpine Electronics of America, Inc. announced the retirement of Jim O’Neill, executive vice president of OEM and aftermarket sales and marketing. O’Neill also serves as the president of Alpine Electronics of Canada. He has been an Alpine employee for 40 years.

Born and raised in the Chicago area, O’Neill joined the local Motorola office in 1968 as part of the product planning division. In 1972, he transferred to Alps-Motorola, the newly-formed joint venture between Alpine Electronics, Inc. and Motorola.  He worked as an account manager, selling 8-track tapes to major home electronics companies.  

In 1978, Alpine Electronics of America, Inc. was established as a separate company in Torrance, CA. O’Neill moved west to join Alpine in 1980, serving as an OEM sales manager. Alpine signed its first OEM contracts with BMW and American Honda Motors, and achieved OEM sales of $35 million in just three years. Under O’Neill’s leadership, additional automakers such as Mercedes Benz, Jaguar, Chrysler, Toyota and Acura were signed as OEM customers. As a result, Alpine opened satellite offices in key cities to better serve the automakers. Throughout his tenure, O’Neill continued to advance within the company. In 1992, he was promoted to senior vice president of OEM sales, then became the first American Alpine employee to serve on the Alpine Electronics of America board in 1996. By this time, O’Neill was also involved in Alpine’s aftermarket business and was named executive vice president of OEM and aftermarket sales and marketing in 1997. He was also appointed as president of Alpine Electronics of Canada the same year.  

“Jim O’Neill has had a major influence on Alpine’s entire business structure,” said Kazunobu Watanabe, president, Alpine Electronics of America, Inc. “His wisdom and business acumen shaped the foundation of our OEM division, which remains a key part of our company.  We greatly appreciate his many years of dedication and service to Alpine.”

O’Neill’s last day in the office will be March 30, 2012, after which he will support Alpine as an advisor and consultant. Steve Crawford, vice president and general manager of Alpine’s aftermarket business unit, will take on the additional duty of president for Alpine Electronics of Canada.  

After many years of domestic and international travel for work, O’Neill plans to spend time with his wife Sandi, two children, and four grandchildren.  He is an avid reader and golfer, and is looking forward to having more time to cheer for his beloved Chicago Cubs and Chicago Bears.

Atlanta, GA – Hybrid Audio Technologies is pleased to announce the release of its newest product in the company’s Stage VI category. Hybrid Audio Technologies is a high-end speaker brand based in Atlanta, GA, and is the maker of six levels of speaker components; from the budget-friendly Stage I Mirus series, to the world-class Stage V Legatia and Stage VI Legatia Special Edition and Legatia Pro series, respectively. Approaching its seventh year since incorporation, the company is excited to announce its Stage VI offering has been expanded to include a high performance dome midrange driver.

First discussed publically on Facebook in February, the Legatia L3 Pro was developed with the input from Hybrid Audio’s competitors and enthusiasts to offer a high performance driver with a sealed-back design, requiring no additional airspace, allowing for many installation options, excellent frequency response, low inductance, and excellent sensitivity. The Legatia L3 Pro features a fully machined aluminum body, fine fabric diaphragm, and a tuned polypropylene chamber with heavy-gauge spring-loaded terminals, and will be offered in natural machined silver and black anodized colors.  The dome midrange topology is a departure for Hybrid Audio Technologies, as the company has become well-known in the high-end communities for building the finest cone midranges and midbass’ available at any price. 

Scott Buwalda, the company’s founder and lead speaker engineer stated “we felt there was a demand for a Hybrid Audio dome midrange, and after receiving feedback on our various social media sites supporting the endeavor, we decided to go into production.  The addition of a high-end dome midrange further reinforces our commitment to build world-class speaker systems in a variety of different topologies to satisfy a wide diversity of musical tastes and potential system designs.”

The Legatia L3 Pro dome midrange compliments the existing Legatia Special Edition (SE) series, including the L3SE (3.7-inch wide bandwidth cone midrange), L4SE (4.65-inch wide bandwidth cone midrange), L6SE (7.1-inch wide bandwidth cone midrange/midbass), and the L8SE (8.85-inch wide bandwidth cone midrange/midbass). All SE-series designs include light moving mass diaphragms, Cu-Al inductance mitigation, double-stacked high-grade neodymium motors, and rose-tinted copper-plated extended phase plug pole pieces to ensure the widest frequency response bandwidth possible from any commercially-available design.  The L3 Pro will be shipping in approximately 60 days.  Pre-production sets will be distributed to Hybrid Audio’s key world championship competitors John Sketoe, Hajji Grape, and Larry Woolacott for installation into their respective competition cars for demonstration and use in sanctioned competition.

Oxnard, CA – Scosche Industries, a leading innovator of mobile electronic products and accessories for the automotive aftermarket, today announced that car audio industry veteran Jason Kemmerer has been named as Scosche’s Director of Product Management – Automotive.  Kemmerer brings an extensive background of market analysis and product development strategies to Scosche.  His hire reaffirms Scosche’s ongoing dedication to the automotive aftermarket and will enhance the company’s current team of aftermarket professionals.

"With his expertise, Scosche looks forward to reinventing the integration between the consumer aftermarket and original equipment that exists in the vehicle,” said Roger Alves president, Scosche Industries.  “I am personally excited about working closely with Jason to reshape our future."

In his capacity as Director of Product Management - Automotive, Kemmerer will be responsible for expanding the current line of automotive products and the direction of new product development.  Kemmerer will oversee the car audio product development and technical support teams. He will also work closely with marketing and sales teams to develop targeted marketing strategies and ensure sell-through.

Alves continued, “Jason’s successful track record of developing industry leading products and initiating strategies that competitively position those products in the marketplace, will serve us well as we continue our commitment to growing the aftermarket industry.”

Kemmerer has more than 25 years of experience in the automotive aftermarket industry.  Kemmerer comes to Scosche from Alpine Electronics, where he was Product Planning Division Manager and the driving force behind products such as PDX, Type-R and Imprint over the past 14 years.  With experience in all aspects of the car audio business, he began his career in installation and sales, then engineering and development, and continued in product management positions. 

Kemmerer has multiple patents and patents pending across product categories and is active in consumer electronics and audio industry organizations, including the Consumer Electronics Association (CEA) and Audio Engineering Society (AES). Kemmerer lives in Thousand Oaks and enjoys skiing, motorcycles, R/C hobbies and everything audio.  He is also an Eagle Scout, competitive shooter and lifetime NRA member.

In its 32^nd year of business, Scosche continues its commitment of developing quality products for the automotive aftermarket. Visit www.scosche.com for all of Scosche’s innovative products.  

Torrance, Calif. - Alpine Electronics of America, Inc. announced that all of its new 2012 single DIN CD receivers are now shipping.  Although some of the new receivers began shipping in February, the remaining models have now become available. 

The receivers offer various connectivity options for popular digital audio sources.  Three of the new models have built-in HD Radio™ receivers, allowing access to over 2,000 stations broadcasting with HD Radio Technology.  Four models offer full Pandora^® internet radio control, including thumbs-up, thumbs-down, track skip, bookmarking, and new station creation.  Depending on the model, this full control is available via the Pandora app on an iPhone^® connected via USB, or from Android™ or BlackBerry^® smartphones using Bluetooth^® wireless technology.  When either HD Radio or Pandora is playing, song, artist and album name will scroll on the display.

Bluetooth wireless technology is included on four of the receivers.  Features that enhance the hands-free calling experience include an Alpine-tuned sound maximizer for clearer incoming call sound quality, and a separate microphone that can be precisely mounted (such as on the visor) to optimize capturing the driver’s voice for improved out-going sound quality.  Other features include secure simple pairing (SSP) to improve the pairing experience for newer smartphones; display of phone battery level, cellular signal level and received message icons; and call waiting support.

The following Alpine CD receivers are now available at authorized Alpine retailers:

CDE-HD138BT Advanced Bluetooth CD/HD Radio Receiver

DE-HD137BT Advanced Bluetooth CD/HD Radio Receiver

CDE-135BT Advanced Bluetooth CD Receiver

CDE-134HD CD/HD Radio Receiver

TEMPE, Ariz. - Rockford Fosgate, the industry leader in high-performance car audio systems, announced that its new M400-4D, M600-4D, M750-1D, and M12001D marine-grade amplifiers are now shipping.

“Based on Rockford Fosgate’s Full Range Class D amplifier platform, the highly efficient Marine Series Class D amplifiers have been designed and built to withstand the rigors of harsh nautical climates and conditions,” explained Jake Braaten, Rockford director of product development. “There are no worries when taking Rockford’s acclaimed power out on the water as these systems include a marinized circuit board, and all hardware is chrome-plated to resist corrosion.”

The M400-4D and M600-4D 4-channel amps have been designed to power Rockford Fosgate’s M2 full-range speakers, while the M750-1D and M1200-1D mono-block amps can power either single or multi-subwoofer systems

New Marine Amplifier Specs & US Pricing:

Additional specs for the M400-4D, M600-4D, M750-1D, and M12001D include:

• • 12dB/octave Butterworth crossovers
• • 2/4 channel switch (M400-4D, M600-4D)
• • RCA pass-thru (M750-1D, M12001D)
• • 12dB/octave Infrasonic filter (M750-1D, M12001D)
• • 4 Gauge power/ground terminals
• • Cast aluminum heatsink
• • Top mounted controls
• • Class D circuit topology
• • Short circuit protection
• • MOSFET power supply
• • CEA-2006 compliant
• • CE compliant

 Annual gathering recognizes new SEMA Hall of Fame and Board members

Diamond Bar, Calif.- Hundreds of leaders and professionals from the SEMA industry will gather to honor noteworthy icons and volunteers during the 2012 SEMA Installation Banquet & Gala Fundraiser on Friday, July 27, at the Sheraton Fairplex Hotel & Convention Center in Pomona, California. The annual event serves as the industry's premier celebration where newly elected Board of Directors are sworn in and SEMA Hall of Fame inductees are introduced for the first time.

"While the products and customizing trends take center stage at the SEMA Show in Las Vegas, the SEMA Installation Banquet is a time to shine the light on the people and volunteers who make this industry a success," said Chris Kersting, SEMA president and CEO. "This is truly a unique event where we honor and thank our industry’s leaders.”

All industry professionals are invited to attend the SEMA Installation Banquet  & Gala Fundraiser. The event begins with cocktails at 6:00 p.m., where attendees are able to mix and mingle with industry icons and celebrities. During the sit-down dinner that follows, the 2012 SEMA Hall of Fame members are introduced, and the newly elected SEMA Board of Directors are sworn in during the program. Both the new Hall of Fame members and the new Board members will be announced in the near future.

Tickets and information are available at www.sema.org/galatix, or from Michelle Harris at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. "> This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. , 909/978-6684. Proceeds from ticket sales benefit two children's charities: Childhelp and Victory Junction Gang Camp. Childhelp assists abused and neglected children by providing counseling and programs in a safe and secure living environment. Victory Junction Gang Camps provide the camp experience for children with chronic medical conditions or serious illnesses who otherwise would not be able to go to camp.

Also benefitting Childhelp and Victory Junction Gang Camp is the SEMA Cares Pinewood Drag Races, presented by eBay Motors. Taking place at 12:00 noon that same day, the event includes four categories for supporters to select from. In addition to three levels which individuals may build and submit pinewood cars, there is also a “Build It for Me” category where individuals may sponsor a car that was built by a child. Online registration is available at:   http://www.sema.org/sema-cares/pinewood.

ARLINGTON, Va.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Consumer sentiment about the economy, as well as technology spending, are both down in April, according to the latest CEA Index, released today by the Consumer Electronics Association (CEA)^®. 

Consumer sentiment about the economy dropped for the third straight month in April. The CEA Index of Consumer Expectations (ICE) , which measures consumer expectations about the broader economy, fell to 170.9 this month, down 2.7 points from March but nearly five points higher than this time last year.

“Sentiment slipped again in April as continued uncertainty in Europe and depressed equity market returns likely contributed to lower confidence,” said Shawn DuBravac, CEA’s chief economist and senior director of research. “Gas prices also played a major role in sentiment as more than half of respondents said high prices at the pump lowered their confidence in the U.S. economy this month.” 

In April, the CEA Indexes included a series of special questions regarding gas prices. Respondents were asked what impact, if any, higher gas prices were having on their expectations about the broader economy and tech spending over the next 12 months. Roughly 53 percent said gas prices were having no impact on their decision to purchase consumer electronics, while one in three (34 percent) said gas prices were lowering their expectations to make consumer tech purchases over the next 12 months. More than half (51 percent) of respondents said gas prices are lowering their expectations for the U.S. economy over the next 12 months as well.

Consumer sentiment about technology spending also dropped this month, after reaching a high for the year in March. The CEA Index of Consumer Technology Expectations (ICTE) fell to 84.4, down 4.5 points from March. The ICTE, which measures consumer expectations about technology spending, is two points higher than this time last year.

“The slight slip in tech sentiment is not too surprising given the number of new products and devices launched last month as compared to this month,” said DuBravac.

The CEA Indexes comprise the ICE and ICTE, both of which are updated on a monthly basis through consumer surveys. New data is released on the fourth Tuesday of each month. CEA has been tracking index data since January 2007. To find current and past indexes, charts, methodology and future release dates, log on to CEAindexes.org.